Alva pint: Bank backing Harviestoun’s expansion plans

PETER RANSCOMBE

HARVIESTOUN has become the latest micro-brewery to unveil expansion plans after signing a finance deal with Clydesdale Bank.

The Alva-based maker of Bitter & Twisted, Old Engine Oil and Schiehallion will recruit six workers next year to take its headcount to 25, having grown staffing levels by 30 per cent this year.

Harviestoun used a six-figure sum from Clydesdale to build an 11,000sq ft warehouse and office.

Since managing director Chris Miller bought the brewery from Caledonian Brewing Company in 2008, exports have grown from 2 per cent of sales to 20 per cent, targeting 21 countries including Brazil and regions such as North America and Scandinavia.

Miller aims to double sales to £6 million in the next three years and is launching a range of 330ml bottles to complement his existing 500ml offering, including a new Atlantic pale ale in the American craft brewing style.

The Arran, Cairngorm, Stewart and West breweries have all unveiled expansion plans as drinkers continue to crave craft ales.